The short course was designed for experienced regulatory directors, allowing them to interact with government officials and develop strategies to tackle the issues impacting their business, with the main focus this year being the Food Safety Modernization Act.
Opening speaker Eric Nelson of the Food and Drug Administration’s Center for Veterinary Affairs spoke about compliance and upcoming FSMA inspections. A panel of AFIA members discussed how to prepare for the implementation, with representatives participating from Land O’Lakes Purina Feed, P&G Pet Care, Milk Specialties Global, Kemin AgriFoods North America, SPF North America, Provimi North America and law firm, Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Matz PC.

Kent Kitade of the Association of American Feed Control Officials and FDA-CVM’s Sharon Benz discussed the evolving relationship between the two entities. The AAFCO ingredient review and approval process was also discussed by panelists.

AFIA speakers at the course included president and CEO, Joel G. Newman, vice president of nutrition and feed regulation, Richard Sellers, and director of ingredients and state legislative affairs, Leah Wilkinson. The bi-annual event is planned to next be offered in 2013.